Ten ways to spring into Perth farmers markets

While the parade of seasonal produce is an obvious drawcard, these outdoor markets offer myriad reasons to visit and stay for a while. Here are just 10.

Discover new places

If you’re new to a suburb or travelling in the regions, farmers markets are good spots to get to know the community. Apart from being the place to meet people growing and making the food you buy, the markets often host great community groups. Stirling Farmers Market, for example, offers one free stall a week to a not-for-profit.

Enjoy an early breakfast (or lunch)

Photo: Subi Farmers Market

Sure, you should load up on seasonal produce such as blueberries and cucumbers to take home, but we highly recommend grabbing a bite to eat while you’re there. Start the day with savoury crepes, a bacon and egg roll or gourmet toasties, or choose from an array of cuisines for lunch. You will find plenty of sweet treats, such as donuts and cakes, to have with a freshly brewed coffee, too.

Listen to live music

Music adds to the chilled vibe of farmers markets and ensures a feast for all the senses. Kick back on the grass and listen to local musicians play the guitar or keyboards and sing a few tunes as you tuck into some freshly cooked grub and a nice hot cup of tea or coffee. It’s a great way to spend a few hours.

Buy a homemade present

There are so many clever and crafty people in our community and farmers markets are a great way to discover them. At Subi Farmers Market, for example, you will find everything from basket weavers to locally designed clothes. Buy something special from a local artisan – or treat yourself!

Learn a new skill

Some farmers markets offer regular workshops. Perth City Farm has a range of interesting skills you can learn at reasonable rates, from making tofu or sourdough bread, to preserves and permaculture. Check out their events section online to see the array of fabulous things you could be doing.

Colour your world

Fresh food isn’t the only seasonal fare to pick up while you’re foraging outdoors – there are lovely blooms everywhere, including the Kalamunda Farmers Market. Fashioned into pretty posies or bouquets of colourful natives, there’s bound to be a bunch for you to take home or buy a plant to brighten someone else’s day.

Keep the kids amused

Most parents can attest to the fact that taking the children shopping is far from fun. But farmers markets often provide in-built entertainment to keep the kids amused so you can all have a good time. At Freo Farmers Market, for example, face painting, circus play and visiting farm animals are just a few of the extras that will put a smile on their dial.

Try something different

Ever thrown an axe? You can try your hand at Swan Settlers Market. Interested in the environment? Find out about the beauty of bee hotels with Battsenby’s Wildlife Habitats, which pop up at markets from Roleystone to Fremantle. Breaking out of your comfort zone also extends to food. Farmers markets are a great place to discover different flavours, from fresh ingredients to hot sauces, pickles and chutneys. Sample what’s on offer and you’re bound to find a new favourite.

Photo: Kyilla Community Farmers Market

Don’t forget your pets

You can bring your pooch to most farmers markets, including Kyilla Community Farmers Market, so even four-legged members of the family get a morning out. Whether it’s allowing them a nibble from the sausage sizzle or stocking up on treats from a pet stall, you can spoil them there, too. There are usually water bowls out for them in case it’s a warm day.

Savour that local feeling

Buy West Eat West members are regulars at farmers markets across the state, so take a look at our members list and keep an eye out for these wonderful producers and artisans. And give yourself a pat on the back as you leave laden with produce – you’re doing so much good by buying local.

However you choose to experience your local farmers market, don’t forget to bring some cash. Some stallholders don’t have electronic facilities and we’d hate you to go home empty handed.